I would like to start off saying that I want to present foreign films to watch out for. Since being a UIC student and hanging out with many different types of people from many different backgrounds, I learned little tidbits about different cultures on my own. These films, though they may contain subtitles, are still good films to watch and provide a glimpse into other’s cultures. I hope you enjoy these films like I have watching them.
In the Mood for Love – Hong Kong (2000)
A man and a woman begin to build a friendship after they learn of their spouses’ infidelity to each other.
That’s basically what the story is about. The film is more about the style and the artsy feel. While the film may seem slow to some, it really pays off. The seductive slow motion, the repetition of soothing music, and the bright colors fill this movie to create an enhancing glow. In the Mood for Love is a methodical film that gives an unseen perspective on the lives of ordinary people in a situation involving infidelity. This movie is worth a watch just for the feel itself.
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon – China (2000)
A mysterious assassin and thief steal a powerful sword in Qing dynasty China. Li Mu Bai along with his second in command and his crush, Yu Shu Lien, they chase the assassin to reclaim the sword and peace for that part of China.
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is a Chinese film from the University of Illinois Alumni Ang Lee. While the movie is essentially a martial arts movie, it still has two powerful love stories in it to drive away from the action and something that has lots of meaning to it. The landscape and scenery is beautiful especially showing the Chinese culture in the film. Even the fight scene has a very special aura to it, resembling a dance routine. The film is a beautiful tale and takes on hidden love, loyalty, and death. Also, the ending gives the movie even more beauty than it already had.
Life is Beautiful – Italy (1997)
Guido, an Italian Jew, is enjoying his life with his gorgeous wife and his adorable son in Italy during World War II. But as the Nazis take all the Jews in Italy and put them in concentration camps, Guido must try to keep his son’s innocence and reconcile with his wife during this bleak period of time.
This is truly one of the most remarkable movies ever made. Life is Beautiful is funny and warm-hearted. Yes that is correct, a humorous take on the holocaust. How this movie does this incredible feat is beyond me, and I cannot explain it. You just can’t help but fall in love with Guido and his incredible talents for doing crazy antics and getting things done. It is emotional and magnificent and joyful and all in the backdrop of one of the darkest times in human history. You must really watch this film to know what I am talking about.